NORTH ATTLEBOROUGH, Mass. — The state Legislature has approved $40,000 to reimburse the North Attleborough Police Department for some of the costs associated with the murder investigation that led to the arrest of former New England Patriot tight end Aaron Hernandez.

Republican Rep. Betty Poirier, of North Attleborough, and Republican Sen. Richard Ross, of Wrentham, say the Legislature appropriated the money as part of its supplemental budget, which has been sent to the governor's desk for his approval.

"As a result of the exceptional performance of the North Attleborough Police Department in the days and weeks following this terrible tragedy, the town incurred an unexpected financial burden," Poirier said. "This funding will undoubtedly go a long way in absorbing these unforeseen costs. I look forward to Gov. Patrick's timely approval of this critical funding."